The rapper-turned-sports agent has taken an interest in Jones, according to the New York Post's Kirsten Fleming, who reports that Jay-Z's Roc Nation wants "to be involved in the star's marketing and branding." Jones is currently represented by CAA, which has a partnership with Roc Nation, and agent Pat Brisson would continue handling the important paperwork should Jones sign on with Jay-Z.

It makes sense that Jones and Jay-Z would connect. Jones is the son of former NBAer Popeye Jones, who is currently an assistant coach for the Brooklyn Nets. Jay-Z was recently a minority owner of the team before having to sell his stake in order to enter sports agency full-time.

As the top prospect in the 2013 NHL draft, Jones would bring an incredible amount of talent to Roc Nation's lineup. And if the 18-year-old defenseman is selected first overall, he would be the first black player to ever achieve the feat. That's a major marketing opportunity in its own right, and exponentially so if Jay-Z is on board.

Beyond Jones' individual earning potential, though, is the possibility that Jones could be hockey's long-awaited crossover star. The NHL has been trying to expand its reach for years, but a serious lack of racial diversity seemingly as old as the sport itself has greatly limited those efforts, particularly in the black community. It hasn't become any easier in recent years for black fans to embrace the sport. For some context, check out this Washington Post op-ed for a glimpse at the difficulties that black hockey fans face, or this Ebony article that details the sort of pervasive racism that often pushes them away.

With that background in mind, it would appear doubtful that a single player like Jones could make much of a difference, especially because there's hardly a void of successful black players in the league. Evander Kane, the No. 4 draft pick in 2009, is one of the NHL's best playmakers, and he's joined by the likes of Jarome Iginla, PK Subban, Dustin Byfuglien, Kyle Okposo and Wayne Simmonds, among others.

But most of those players aren't American, like Jones is, and none of them have a global superstar leading the way. Jay-Z, a bona fide marketing guru and the second-wealthiest hip hop star in the world, may very well be able to turn Jones from the NHL's top prospect into a player who is widely marketed to, recognized by and - most importantly - a draw for even the casual sports fan.

That's a lot to ask of a teenager, but Jones is mature beyond his years and appears up to the task. With Jay-Z potentially at the helm, he'll have to be.